NEXT WEEK

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Chapter 32.10

“TREASURE JARS” 2 Corinthians 4:7 - 5:10 May 20, 2018

NEXT WEEK

“NO OBSTACLES”

2 Corinthians 5:11 - 7:16

Passage Overview:



It’s the simplicity of the container that reveals the wonder of the treasure.



I. Treasure in jars of clay. (4:7-15)



A. The treasure is the gospel of Jesus. (4:1-6)



B. We are the clay jars. (4:7-12)



C. So speak about what you believe. (4:13-15)

II. Live with an eternal perspective. (4:16 – 5:5)

A. Eternally better! (4:16-18)

B. Prepared to live forever (5:1-5)



III. The single purpose of life: to please Him. (5:6-10)

How does this apply to me?

Having spoken about the wonderful treasure of life through the gospel that is held in the frail earthen vessels of our bodies, Paul commits himself to placing no obstacles to the gospel in anyone’s way. He is controlled by the love of Christ to be an instrument in God’s hands, carrying the message of reconciliation to the world. This gospel message is succinct and crystal clear. Nothing in our lives should ever complicate or compromise the message. We, along with Paul, are ambassadors for Christ. He makes His appeal to the lost through us. Our lives then, must be pure and ready conduits for His truth. The salvation of others is of the highest urgency. Our lives must be surrendered unreservedly to this purpose. Nothing must be allowed to derail our focus. No alliance with unbelievers can ever be allowed to compromise this gospel purpose of our lives. We must be solely His. Finally, the Spirit addresses the important difference between godly and worldly grief. Grief for sin isn’t enough. The manner in which we grieve matters! Godly grief leads to repentance (the turning of our lives from sin) and to salvation. Worldly grief regrets being exposed and or getting caught. It regrets the sin because of the consequences of the sin. But it doesn’t lead to a changed life through repentance and trust in Christ alone. As you read this week, ask yourself whether or not your life is so completely surrendered to Christ for the purpose of sharing the gospel that you would strip anything out of your life that inhibits this singular purpose. Consider the role grief for sin plays in your life. Is your grief godly or worldly grief? Reading for Next Week: 2 Corinthians 5:11 – 7:16